Howard Pierre Buchenberger

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Geneva Buchenberger, and his sister Jean Gumm.

He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Lois Buchenberger of Fresno, his daughters Laura Ceja and her husband Paul of Santa Maria, Lesley Fairburn and her husband Kevin of Clovis, Julie Klassen of Irvine, and his son David Buchenberger of Fresno. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Paul Ceja, Nicole Lima, Ashley and Brittney Fairburn, and eight great-grandchildren.

Growing up in Milwaukee, Howard graduated from North Division High in 1940. He earned his Bachelor's degree in 1947 from the University of Wisconsin in Madison where he was track captain; chairman of the social committee; and prom king. He was on the cross-country team and joined Theta Delta Chi fraternity. He earned his Master's degree in 1950 from University of Madison, Wisconsin.

Howard joined the Army Reserve in October 1942. He was called to active duty in March 1943. He was sent to Hammer Field in Fresno (where he later made his home) while he waited for his army assignment. The army service sent him to Scotland, England, and Germany during the war. He was honorably discharged in January 1946.

Howard and Lois moved to California in 1956 and made Fresno their home since 1966. Howard retired from banking after more than 33 years and taught night business classes at both Pasadena City College as well as Fresno City College. After retiring from banking he became a substitute teacher for the Fresno Unified and Clovis Unified School District teaching all subjects. He enjoyed working with people and didn't fully retire until he was 78.

Howard was an active member of St. Paul Newman Center and later a parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua. He was an avid runner; loved to swim and remained active in his later life by walking. He ran the Boston Marathon at age 56. He loved people and touched many hearts. He will be truly missed.

A Funeral Service will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home on July 24, 2014 at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at Belmont Memorial Park.